Integrate livestock where possible

Introducing livestock into cropping systems, or managing perennial pasture or forage with animals, can enhance the biological component of the soil, build organic matter by promoting below ground biomass, and aid in nutrient cycling.

Pasture and Hay Planting

Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species suitable for pasture, hay, or biomass production.

This practice is also used for: Minimize Disturbance, Maximize Living Roots

Forage Harvest Management

The timely cutting and removal of forages from the field as hay, green-chop, or ensilage.

Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals in a manner that prioritizes both animal and pasture health; including practices such as management-intensive rotational grazing; establishing native species, swath and bale grazing, stockpiling cool-season forage, etc.

Silvopasture

Establishing trees and/or shrubs with compatible forages on the same acreage.

This practice is also used for: Minimize Disturbance, Maximize Living Roots, Energize with Biodiversity, Keep Soil Covered

HOW do farmers join the Million Acre Challenge?

Filling out a self-assessment survey enrolls farmers in the challenge and gives them access to tools to track their progress toward healthy soils knowledge and management.

Join the Challenge

Tiers of Regeneration

The Million Acre Challenge welcomes farms of all sizes and production methods to accept the challenge of advancing their land on the spectrum of soil health!

Learn More

Soil Health Hubs

Regional Soil Health Hubs are where growers meet with each other to explore practices, strategies, and opportunities to make farmland more profitable and resilient through healthier soil.

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Farmer Stories

We know every farmer, like every farm, is unique. These spotlights feature farmers of all backgrounds across the Chesapeake region – those with different farm sizes, production methods, and farming traditions.